[Supratentorial intracranial arachnoid cysts]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Neuropsychology

Context:

• Supratentorial arachnoid cysts are relatively uncommon intracranial lesions.
• Understanding their clinical presentation and impact on cognitive function is crucial for management.

Purpose:

• To classify supratentorial arachnoid cysts based on clinical symptomatology.
• To evaluate the neuropsychological deficits associated with these cysts.
• To discuss surgical treatment indications.

Summary:

• This study reports on 20 cases of supratentorial arachnoid cysts, categorized into three clinical groups: those with intracranial hypertension/focal deficits, those with headache/epilepsy, and asymptomatic incidental findings.
• Neuropsychological testing revealed verbal memory deficits in five patients with left sylvian fissure cysts, but no aphasia.
• Surgical treatment indications are considered based on clinical presentation, neuropsychological findings, and neuroradiological data.

Impact:

• Provides a clinical classification for supratentorial arachnoid cysts.
• Highlights the potential for memory deficits in affected individuals.
• Offers guidance for surgical decision-making in managing these cysts.